Meet the Founder

Tinikia Smith

The Founder of Direct Paths Family Services , Tinikia Smith is very caring, thoughtful, and compassionate. She is a dedicated wife, mother, and works very dutiful with  young people. Her outreach arm extended to troubled youth and her love for them to make a difference in leading them to a sure relationship in Christ Jesus. She has always had the heart to serve and that all young people have the opportunity to live a successful life directed by God.

She recalls working in corporate America and God having a calling on her life to serve. Back in 2013, she felt a tugging. She was compelled by the scripture Proverbs 3:5-6, Trust in the LORD with all thine heart; and lean not unto thine own understanding. [6] In all thy ways acknowledge him, and he shall direct thy paths. This scripture is the God-given name she has held onto for several years, not knowing which way God was leading her.

She trusted and believed, and developed the blueprint to serve aged out youth in the foster care system. Her ministry has been to serve pregnant and single mothers. But she believes that all youth deserve the opportunity to have the successful tools to succeed in life. She has a testimony of overcoming, that she wants to share with youth who have faced many heartbreaks, disappointments, and setbacks.

Direct Paths has a mission to PREVENT YOUTH HOMELESSNESS BY PROVIDING  QUALITY HOUSING AND SUPPORT SERVICES FOR AT-RISK AGED-OUT FOSTER YOUTH